Global Developmental Delay (GDD) is the general term used to describe a condition that occurs during the developmental period of a child between birth and 18 years. It is usually defined by the child being diagnosed with having a lower intellectual functioning than what is perceived as ‘normal’. It is usually accompanied by having significant limitations in communication. It is said to affect about 1-3% of the population.

This ‘diagnosis’ is probably the most frustrating for many parents as it means our children simply ‘do not fit in a box’ ! It is also the most common of reasons given out by medical professionals as so many children have such a ‘mixed bag’ of needs. No doubt you have already ‘googled’ GDD to death and realised that many of the symptoms your child shows can cross over into other diagnosis. They might simply be late talkers, walkers , eaters, toileters..etc and then they might also have more pressing needs such as seizures, health problems, lack of communication etc